Seireitei (court of pure souls) is in the center of Soul Society, a circular shiro with four main entrances, each guarded by a Gate Guardian. The walls are made of deathstone, a material known to sap all spiritual and psychic energy when one portion is faced in a particular direction, similar to magnetic lodestones. The deathstone also forms a spherical barrier around the city, preventing anyone from entering anywhere other than the four gates.

The majority of the residents of Seireitei, nobility and shinigami alike, do not interact with the citizens of Rukongai. However, residents of Rukongai, like Renji and Rukia, are allowed to apply for the shinigami academy, which is often the only escape from the poorest conditions of Rukongai. Some Seireitei residents, such as ex-commander of the special forces, Yoruichi Shihouin, and the Shiba clan, do maintain residences outside the castle.

At the center of Seireitei are the Shrine of Penitence (senzaikyu), a white tower, and So-kyoku Hill, where executions take place.